Angie Lofthouse's Blog, page 7

One Word Interview with C. David Belt

Today, we welcome LDS fantasy author C. David Belt to the Writing Chair. His novel, The Penitent, the second in his Children of Lilith Series was a 2012 Whitney Award Finalist. Welcome, David!

Zombie apocalypse! What fictional character do you most want by your
side?
John Carter.

An excellent choice!

Your MCs house is on fire. What's the first thing he would grab?
Daytime: cloak; Nighttime: broadsword.

Of course. He is a vampire after all!

You've been plunked down in the middle of your latest book. Weapon of choice? 
Mortal: M-16;  Vampire: basket-hilt claymore.

Yeah, I think I'd go for the sword myself.

What historical figure would you most like to have lunch with?
John Adams

That would be interesting. I wonder what he'd make of our current political climate.

You're having your favorite author over for dinner. What are you serving?
Spoo.

Wonderful! (Bonus points to everyone who gets the reference.)

 Thank you so much for joining us today!

In all the 6,000 years that the Children of Lilith have walked among us,
there has never been an unwilling vampire . . . until now.

Carl Morgan has lost everything. His wife and children were killed in a
senseless accident. Then he witnesses the murder of his sister at the hands
of a beautiful and mysterious woman named Rebecca. When the police cannot
locate the killer, Carl takes matters into his own hands. But his search for
justice costs him everything he holds dear.

Carl is unknowingly transformed into the world's first and only unwilling
vampire. He is cut off from the light, damned to an eternity of darkness,
barred from heaven and any hope of a reunion with his family.

Moira MacDonald, a repentant vampire, has roamed the earth alone for
centuries seeking redemption. The very existence of an unwilling vampire,
something she thought impossible, changes everything. Has she finally found
a path to redemption . . . and an end to her loneliness?

Carl and Moira discover that Rebecca's vampire Master, Michael, plans to
unleash a plague of vampires on the city. Can Carl and Moira stop the
slaughter of countless innocents?


In 6,000 years, no vampire has ever defied Lilith, Queen of the
vampires...until now.

Moira and Carl Morgan have saved the city from the horror of Michael and his
evil wives, but victory has come at terrible cost.

And there are consequences to every choice, every victory.

Word has spread that someone has broken Lilith's power, that someone has
defied the ancient Queen of the vampires.

And she's not happy about it.


For 6,000 years, Lilith and her Children have walked the earth, hunting,
preying, seducing, corrupting, ruling from the shadows...until now.

An ancient prophecy, spoken by Adam, Lilith's grandfather, foretells her
doom. She will do anything, corrupt any innocent, murder countless mortals
to save herself.

To survive, she knows she must destroy Carl and Moira Morgan.

The war has begun.

One Word Interview with Theresa Sneed

Today's One Word Interview comes to us from fantasy author Theresa Sneed. Her novels, No Angel and Earthbound were both Whitney Award Finalists! Welcome, Theresa.

Stranded on a desert island. What's your must-have item?
My must-have anything is my husband Bill ... but you said item, so I'll say my scriptures. But now my imagination is kicking in, and I'm betting I could live off fish and coconuts, make a thatched roof hut to live in, and boil water down if I can't find a fresh spring to drink from; and I'm thinking I could make paper out of wood pulp or leaves, so I guess all I need is a big box of pencils with good erasers. 

That was more than one word! But I'll let it pass. Nice logic. A box of pencils is a terrific item to have.

Your characters are coming over for dinner. What are you serving?
Angel hair spaghetti  with garlic and herbs and angel food cake for dessert.

Because they are angels! Hee hee. Sounds yummy.

You've been plunked down in the middle of your latest book. Which character do you do seek out first?
Coe - one of the leaders in the No-Choice Movement in my novel, Earthbound ~ not because he's my favorite character, but because he's so charismatic, and I'd like to find out for myself what he's up to.

Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer, right?

What historical figure would you most like to have lunch with?
Other than religious leaders (which would be my first choice), I'd love to sit down with J.R.R. Tolkien, because his intellect fascinates me.

I would love to spend time visiting with Tolkien too. A true genius.

What fictional world would you most like to live in?
If I could live in a fictional world, I'd be a student at Hogwarts ~ too much fun and adventure!
Oh, Hogwarts. Yes. Wouldn't that be a hoot?

Thanks for joining us in the writing chair today, Theresa!

People often ask me why I write about angels ~ I write about angels, because I believe in them. I can’t imagine that God would send us to earth without their extra help. Read my novels, and see if you don’t believe in them too.

No Angel is the story of Jonathan Stewart ~ an angel with an attitude. He was not at all happy about having to return to earth as a guardian angel, but it’s required of all post-mortal spirits to fulfill at least one angel guardianship. Fortunately, on the Guardians Unlimited application, he had the good sense to request a client with early-marked-death status, so he believes that while his stay on earth will be most unpleasant, at least it will be short. What he doesn’t know is that a spirit with EMD status can choose his or her time of death! Jonathan’s client, Celeste Knight, has a mind of her own and refuses death at every turn, leaving him stuck as her guardian angel – in a place he only wanted to forget.

Heaven used to be such a perfect place …

As the time draws near for the first spirits to leave their home in heaven, a group of rebellious dissenters begins to appear at every blue-planet planning meeting, demanding that all mortals are ruled by compulsory choice, instead of having the freedom to choose for themselves. Daniel is a courageous Freedom Fighter who vehemently opposes the No Choice movement. Sophie is impressed by his strong desire to do what’s right … and by his intense blue eyes. But she also has a strange attraction to the handsome and ostentatious Coe, a leader of the No Choice movement, who has his sights on her and will stop at nothing to claim her as his own.

One Word Interview with Michelle D. Argyle

Today we welcome Michelle D. Argyle to the writing chair, author of Monarch, The Breakaway and other novels. Welcome Michelle!

We are holding a banquet in honor of your awesomeness. What are we
serving for dessert?
Pecan pie

Oh, yum. I think that's the best dessert answer yet.

Aliens attack! Your weapon of choice?
Batliff! (I may or may not be a Trekkie ...)

Perfect! (I may be a Trekkie as well.)
 
What historical figure would you most like to have lunch with?
Kate Chopin (she's a writer)

I bet she'd be fascinating to chat with. 

You've been plunked down in a fairy tale. Which character are you?
Maleficent (maybe I could change for good ...)
 
Well, at the very least you'd get to wear that wonderful black and purple outfit. I love it!

Which one of your characters is most like you?
Naomi (from The Breakaway)

She must be pretty amazing. :)

Thanks for joining us in the writing chair today, Michelle!

Michelle lives and writes in Utah, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. She adores cheese, chocolate, sushi, and lots of ethnic food, and loves to read and write books in the time she grabs between her sword-wielding husband and energetic daughter. She believes a simple life is the best life. Michelle writes contemporary Young Adult and New Adult fiction (and other genres when she feels like it).

One Word Interview with Susan Dayley

Today's One Word Interview is with author Susan Dayley, author of the new cutting-edge romantic suspense novel, Cold Pursuit. Welcome to the writing chair, Susan!

You've survived the apocalypse. What part of civilization do you miss the most?
Internet and chocolate! Internet (or chocolate)

 Mmmm. Chocolate.

The zombies are coming! What fictional character do you want by your side?
Dr. Who

 Excellent choice. Although, I guess this is the part where I have to admit I've never watched Dr. Who. (Now they'll revoke my geek card!)

You've been set down in your latest book. Which character do you seek out first?
Chelo 

From Cold Pursuit! Excellent. (You can learn more about Chelo here.)

You're having your favorite author over for dinner. What are you serving?
P.F. Changs

Delicious! (Funny how most people I've interviewed would not actually cook for their favorite authors!)

What historical figure would you most like to have lunch with?
King Hezekiah  (I always answer this, but it still hasn't happened.)

Maybe someday, Susan. Or maybe you could accompany D.J. Butler on his time travel expedition.

Thanks so much for joining us in the writing chair today, Susan!

Susan Dayley is the author of Redemption, a couple of stories that have appeared in anthologies, and numerous articles. She tutors in the mornings, attends classes at the local university, and loves to write. In her house she has a wall of bright colored sticky-notes where she has listed some of her favorite things. Among the names of her children and grandchildren, can also be found “tree houses,”  “jazz music,” “waterfalls,” and “green drinks”.


 When Kennady first meets Atticus she is not impressed. The second time, she's offended. But before the week is over, they team up to find out who sabotaged the alternative-energy project in a basement lab on the university campus. You get to choose what happened in the break-in at the lab--was Dr. Takashida kidnapped or were his computer files stolen? As sinister forces try to stop Kennady and Atticus from solving the crime, each of the two story lines divide, offering a total of four possible endings. . . Full of mystery, suspense, and romance, Cold Pursuit takes your reading experience to the next level.

One Word Interview with Rachelle Christensen

Today's One Word Interviewee is Rachelle J. Christensen, author of suspense novels, non-fiction, romance, and a new series about a wedding planner who solves mysteries. Doesn't that sound like fun? Welcome to the writing chair, Rachelle.

Stranded on a desert island. What's your must-have item? 
A backpack that's loaded with books, food, and water. :)

Very practical. Especially the books!
 
You have to solve a murder. Which fictional detective do you want by your side? 
Agatha Christie

She would be a good choice for a number of reasons.

What historical figure would you. Most like to have lunch with? 
Jesus Christ

Wouldn't that be something? I'm not sure I'd be able to eat!

You're performing on Broadway. What show are you in? 
My Fair Lady 

(I did play the part of Eliza when I was in high school and my kids love it when I talk "British"!)

That's one of my favorites! I'd love to hear you talk British too. :)

Which one of your main characters is the most like you? 
Hmm, I think Adrielle Pyper is most like me.

Ah. The main character from your new wedding planner mystery series. She must be delightful! (By the way, you can see Adri's creations at www.mashedpotatoesandcrafts.com)

Thanks so much for being here today, Rachelle!


Rachelle J. Christensen is a mom of four cute kids. She has an amazing husband, three cats, and five chickens. Her first novel, Wrong Number was awarded Outstanding Book of the Year from the League of Utah Writers and was also a 2010 Whitney Finalist. Her second suspense novel, Caller ID was released March 2012. She is also the author of a nonfiction book, Lost Children: Coping with Miscarriage for Latter Day Saints. Rachelle has a novella coming out in the fall with a Timeless Romance Anthology by Mirror Press.Rachelle enjoys singing and songwriting, playing the piano, running, motivational speaking, and of course reading. Visit www.rachellewrites.blogspot.com to learn more about upcoming books.

One Word Interview with Dave ("D.J.") Butler

Today's One Word Interview is with my friend and fantastic author, Dave ("D.J.") Butler, author of Whitney Award finalist, City of the Saints and the action packed Rock Band Fights Evil series. Welcome to the writing chair!

 You've even backed into a dark alley by a bad guy who wants to kill you. Which of your characters do you want by your side?
Eddie Marlowe.  He doesn't leave anyone behind.

From Rock Band Fights Evil. I love Eddie. I would seriously choose him too.

If you could travel back in time, what era would you visit?
Late 7th century B.C.  I'd like to see what was really going on in King Josiah's Jerusalem.

That would be really fascinating. And possibly dangerous.

We are holding a banquet in honor of your awesomeness. What are we serving for dessert?
Basilisk Etouffe'.

Okay. I think that beats Jaleta's chilled monkey brains for most interesting dessert!

You've been set down in the middle of your latest book. Weapon of choice?
Aagh!  If I'm set down in the middle of almost any book I've written, I pretty much die immediately.  In this case, in horrible ways.  But since I'm working on my Space Eldritch II story, at least I get a couple of shots off with a blaster before I go.

Um, that was a little more than one word, but I'll let it go this time. (Side note: You are right. It would be deadly to be set down in any of your books!)

What historical figure would you most like to have lunch with?
Ooh, I'm torn.  Benjamin of Tudela.  Or Captain Sir Richard Francis Burton.

They both sound like such interesting adventurers! How fun.

Thanks for being in the writing chair today, Dave! Check out Dave's Whitney Award finalist, Mormon steampunk novel, City of the Saints.

 

 Dave Butler is a lawyer by training, a corporate trainer by profession, and a novelist for the sheer thrill of it.  Dave studies obscure languages (Welsh and Middle Egyptian, anyone?) and plays guitars.  He grew up in Utah and has lived lots of places since.  He, his wife, and their three kids are currently in the process of moving to the New York City area.

One Word Interview with Dave ("D.J".) Butler

Today's One Word Interview is with my friend and fantastic author, Dave ("D.J.") Butler, author of Whitney Award finalist, City of the Saints and the action packed Rock Band Fights Evil series. Welcome to the writing chair!

 You've even backed into a dark alley by a bad guy who wants to kill you. Which of your characters do you want by your side?
Eddie Marlowe.  He doesn't leave anyone behind.

From Rock Band Fights Evil. I love Eddie. I would seriously choose him too.

If you could travel back in time, what era would you visit?
Late 7th century B.C.  I'd like to see what was really going on in King Josiah's Jerusalem.

That would be really fascinating. And possibly dangerous.

We are holding a banquet in honor of your awesomeness. What are we serving for dessert?
Basilisk Etouffe'.

Okay. I think that beats Jaleta's chilled monkey brains for most interesting dessert!

You've been set down in the middle of your latest book. Weapon of choice?
Aagh!  If I'm set down in the middle of almost any book I've written, I pretty much die immediately.  In this case, in horrible ways.  But since I'm working on my Space Eldritch II story, at least I get a couple of shots off with a blaster before I go.

Um, that was a little more than one word, but I'll let it go this time. (Side note: You are right. It would be deadly to be set down in any of your books!)

What historical figure would you most like to have lunch with?
Ooh, I'm torn.  Benjamin of Tudela.  Or Captain Sir Richard Francis Burton.

They both sound like such interesting adventurers! How fun.

Thanks for being in the writing chair today, Dave! Check out Dave's Whitney Award finalist, Mormon steampunk novel, City of the Saints.

 

 Dave Butler is a lawyer by training, a corporate trainer by profession, and a novelist for the sheer thrill of it.  Dave studies obscure languages (Welsh and Middle Egyptian, anyone?) and plays guitars.  He grew up in Utah and has lived lots of places since.  He, his wife, and their three kids are currently in the process of moving to the New York City area.

One Word Interview with Chantele Sedgwick

Today's One Word Interview is with Chantele Sedgwick, author of the delightful YA fantasy novel Not Your Average Fairy Tale. (A boy fairy godmother. What could be better than that?) Welcome, Chantele!

 You've been set down inside a fairy tale. What character are you? 
Belle

With that huge library? Sign me up too!

If you could have lunch with any historical figure, who would it be? 
Emma Smith

Wife of the prophet Joseph. I would love to meet her as well. She seems like such an amazing woman.

What fictional world would you most like to live in? 
Hogwarts

Oh, I'd love that too. But those shifting staircases would take some getting used to!

You are performing on Broadway. What show are you in? 
Hairspray 

That sounds fun! I'd ask your favorite song or which character you'd be, but you're one word is up for that question.

Which character in your book is the most like you? 
Kendall

I like her. She is able to rise above so many challenges. 

Thanks so much, Chantele! It's been great having you here in the writing chair.

Chantele Sedgwick grew up playing the harp and singing with her sisters. Little did anyone know, she always had stories in her head, and was surprised when someone told her it wasn't normal. After she had her second baby in 2007, she finally realized she should take her daydreams seriously and write them down. The discovery of first love, first kisses, and the many emotions teens go through, pushed Chantele to find her niche in writing young adult fiction. Some of her stories share a few of her own experiences, but most of them are just fantasies she wished happened to her as a teen. She's a sucker for a great love story and always enjoys a happy ending. Her debut Not Your Average Fairy Tale was published in 2012 by Crescent Moon Press, with the sequel coming in 2013. When she's not writing, Chantele can be found spending time with her husband and four silly kids, reading the newest YA novel, or driving her sisters crazy with random story ideas. Connect with Chantele on her blog or on Twitter.

LDS Writer Blog Fest: An Ocean to Cross

Today is Kayleen Hamblin's LDS Writers Blog Fest. Here's my contribution.

It occurred to me recently that when Lehi's family reached the land of Bountiful after eight years of wandering in the wilderness, they probably thought they had reached their promised land. (See 1 Nephi 17:4-7) But the Lord had something better in store for them, and first they had to cross an ocean. No wonder Nephi's brothers were skeptical. I would be too. (Yeah, I have a lot more in common with Laman and Lemuel than I care to admit.)

I think writing (and life) is a lot like that sometimes. We get an agent or get published or achieve some other goal and think we have arrived, but God says, "Hang on. I have something better in store. You just have to cross this ocean."

And crossing an ocean can be tough! Good thing God will carry us across. So, whatever the ocean is in your life, don't be afraid to cross it! Happy sailing!






Don't forget to visit the other participating blogs:

One Word Interview with Tristi Pinkston

Today I am pleased to welcome my friend, author Tristi Pinkston to the writing chair! Tristi writes delightful cozy mysteries and a host of other genres. Welcome Tristi!

You have to solve a murder! What fictional detective do you want to help?

Miss Marple

Oh, excellent choice! You'd figure it out in no time.

What one historical figure would you like to have lunch with? 

Anastasia 

That would be interesting. Solve that mystery once and for all!

Your favorite author is coming over for dinner. What are you serving? 

Catered

Smart. Very smart. More time for chatting and/or going all fan-girl, right?
 
Which one of your MCs do you have the most in common with? 

Addie

From Turning Pages. If she's half as awesome as you, then she must be a wonderful character.

House is on fire! What do you grab first?

 Children

Ah, yes. They are the most important!

Thanks so much for being with us, Tristi! You can learn more about Tristi and her awesome books on her website and her blog.